A Nigerian Air Force aircraft crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ilaje Local Government Area in Ondo State on Sunday, killing all 32 people on board. The aircraft had seven crew members and 25 passengers. Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, disclosed this on Monday during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today. The governor stated that residents, emergency responders, and security personnel had combed the swampy crash site but had not found anyone alive.
According to Governor Aiyedatiwa, residents first heard a loud sound before seeing the aircraft nose-dive into a swampy area. There was no fire or explosion reported. The governor said Nigerian Navy personnel initially stayed back from the crash site for fear of an explosion or fire outbreak. However, when they noticed there was no sign of fire, they moved in to try and rescue the victims.
The governor stated that rescuers found wreckage from the aircraft, including parts of its wings, identity cards, and military uniforms. However, no living soul was found on board. A video circulating on social media showed a small crowd gathered near a river as rescuers searched the area by boat. Dayo Akinte, a 39-year-old firewood hawker who lives near the scene, told AFP that she heard a sound she initially thought was thunder.
Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his sympathy to the Chief of Air Staff, the entire Nigerian Air Force family, and the families of all personnel and passengers on board the ill-fated aircraft. He described the incident as a sad situation and said everybody has been mourning what happened to Nigerian military officers. The governor also stated that the Nigerian Air Force had launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
President Bola Tinubu has mourned those involved in the crash and ordered a thorough investigation into the incident. In a statement, Mr. Tinubu described the crash as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the country. He commended the Nigerian Air Force for activating an immediate search-and-rescue operation following the crash and prayed for the repose of the souls of those who died.
President Tinubu also declared a three-day mourning period for the victims of the crash. He assured the Nigerian Air Force of the continued support of his administration as they continue their vital role in securing the nation. The president commended the swift response of first responders and the Ondo State Government at the crash site.
The incident has been met with an outpouring of sympathy from Nigerians, with many expressing their condolences to the families of the victims. The Nigerian Air Force has also activated an investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Key officials are working to provide support to the families of those affected and to ensure that such an incident does not occur in the future.
Key points
- All 32 people on board the aircraft were killed in the crash.
- The Nigerian Air Force has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash.
- President Bola Tinubu has declared a three-day mourning period for the victims.
